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We invite you to stay and experience one of Grafton's newest guesthouses, River Port. You can lounge on the deck furniture on the wrap around porch and enjoy a view of the river, or relax inside the house, enjoying the nautical decor, with a stress free get-away. River Port is just a walk away from the shopping, wineries, restaurants and all that Grafton has to offer!

From smoked salmon ragoon to the Thai barbeque pizzette, the seasonal menu is always fresh and healthy. Come for the food or just relax and try one of the fun martinis, approachable wine list, lots of beers and specialty drinks.

Casual family dining where kids 12 and under eat free with a dining adult. Comfortable for families as well as the business traveler. Dining room seating as well as atrium terrace seating available. Franco's Restaurant features such an array of delicious, ever-changing specialty dishes that it's impossible to choose one dish to love. The high quality is always consistent at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

If you're looking for a taste of Hollywood in Alton, Chez Marilyn serves a star-powered lineup of martinis. Maybe you wanna rub shoulders with "The Frank Sinatra" or get a little flirty with "The Marilyn Monroe." Spend the night with your favorite star or mingle a bit with the whole crowd. Lunch and dinner menu offers wide variety, including sandwiches, burgers and pasta. Desserts and soups are made fresh daily. Our patio is the place to be in the warm months of summer. We have live music Wednesday nights.

New merchandise arrives daily at this 13,000-square-foot store. From antiques to crafts to gifts and collectibles, there are unique items available to fit nearly every budget and taste. Over 100 independent dealers offer a wide variety of merchandise. Doors are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.

Share evidence and peruse scientific research on the paranormal at one of the most haunted buildings in Alton -- the former Mineral Springs Hotel -- now the home of the Mineral Springs Paranormal Research Center. Overnight paranormal events are held at the site, in addition to meetings with other paranormal experts, investigators and researchers. Ghost hunting equipment is used in every investigation and there are over 140 EVPs obtained over the years at the hotel and at other investigation sites.

Sit at a picnic table along the Mississippi River in Grafton and enjoy fried buffalo fish, catfish fritters and homemade cole slaw from Beasley Fish Stand. Beasley has a fish market on one side and an outdoor dining area on the other. Hours: T - S 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Travel back in time with us to the Village of Elsah. The entire village of Elsah is on the National Registry of Historic Places. This village, with a population of around one hundred people, is often referred to as the "village where time stood still." Visitors to Elsah can escape back to the Americana of the early 1800s with quiet streets and 19th century stone homes. This “picture perfect” village nestled in the valley is a perfect place for photographers – amateur and professional – anxious to capture a glimpse of the past.

The Hayner Public Library District provides a variety of genealogy-related services to support research efforts. Information from various states in addition to Illinois and other countries is available. The digitized newspaper collection is a wonderful resource of The Hayner Public Library District for genealogy research. The collection includes the Alton Telegraph Archives dating as far back as 1836 and access NEWSPAPER ARCHIVE to locate newspaper articles in other parts of the country.

A beautiful sculpture of Sacagawea graces the campus of Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois. The piece was crafted by Glenna Goodacre who also designed the image on the Sacajewea $1 coin.

A true treasure trove for the more traditional antique hunter. Comb through booth after booth piled high with antiques, collectibles and refinished furniture. Pieces are moderately priced and there are store members on hand to help antiquers sort through the items. Hours: Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Take a trip to Italy with the homemade treats of Princivalli's Cafe. This a great spot for a lunch or dinner with a vew of the river and classic decor, right down to the red and white check tablecloths. Bring the family and share a slice of some of the best pizza in town. Enjoy traditional Italian favorites like homemade pizza, the signature house sub, parmesan chicken, a variety of pasta dishes and much more! The atmosphere is welcoming, the service is fast and friendly, and the food is out of this world!

Located in the antique district of historic downtown Alton, this mom and pop craft shop has all your project needs and then some. Unique and traditional crafting items are found throughout the store. Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The River View Guest House has it all! Enjoy the comforts of home with amenities that include a kitchenette, family room and a game area with a dart board & a Foosball table. The sofa sleeper and two guest rooms sleeps six people comfortably. This guest house offers a patio and fire pit for outdoor relaxation.

Opening for business on September 1, 1987, Grafton Fudge, formerly Country Corner Fudge, has become a city landmark. The shop is located in the McClintock House, with is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1900, Mr. McClintock poured each block to build a hand made block house. The architectural style is Queen Anne. Our fresh home made fudge has been our number one product from the beginning. In 1990, we added a small two gallon ice cream freezer. We now have 12 flavors of Dryers/Edys premium ice cream. Other lasting additions to our product mix have been, Pecan Brittle, Cashew Crunch, a full assortment of chocolate covered confections, and old fashioned candy. Hand dipped Caramel Apples, Case and Buck Knives, Minnetonka Moccasins,and several lines of jewelry, purses and hand bags can be found in the shop. There is also a large selection of antique furniture, quilts, primitives, stoneware and pottery. Hours: Monday - Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Thursday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Displays of torture devices from around the world, pictures and written explanations are part of this self-guided tour. Hours: Jan. 1 - May 31: Saturday & Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m. June 1 - Aug. 31: Friday - Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.

This Queen Anne-style playhouse was built for Lucy J. Haskell, daughter of Dr. William A. & Florence H. Haskell. The playhouse was an exact replica of the family home. Lucy died at age nine of diptheria and the Haskell's gave the estate to the City of Alton for educational & recreational purposes. The playhouse is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places and can be visited in Haskell Park.

Historic Downtown Alton is better known as "Antique Row," boasting of more than 40 antique and specialty shops offering a wide array of treasures, trinkets, antiques and unusual gifts. Pick up a piece of Alton's rich history from one of the many local antique dealers. From the simple to the sublime, just about everything can be found along Broadway, Third Street and the surrounding neighborhood.

Built in 1893, this historic masonry courthouse sits at the center of town and serves as the hub of activity for the entire county. The courthouse is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours of the courthouse are available for groups with reservations. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon

Every day, trained bakers craft and bake loaves of bread from scratch, using the best ingredients to ensure the highest quality breads. Panera Bread understands that great bread makes great meals, from made-to-order sandwiches to tossed-to-order salads and soup served in bread bowls.

Cross the creek to experience our rustic cabin in the woods. Nestled among the tree-covered bluffs is where you’ll find our little piece of nature. A getaway without phones, television, cable or internet… truly a place to get away from it all. Located just 1.2 miles north of Grafton on the Illinois Route 100, the guest house features two bedrooms and comfortably accommodates four people. Kitchen includes appliances and cooking supplies. Outdoors you’ll find a beautiful creek, running spring, fire pit and BBQ grill.

If its biscuits and gravy you crave, then Clifton Country Inn & Bake Shop is the place to go in Godfrey. In addition to traditional bakery goods like donuts, this family-owned diner also features a full breakfast and lunch menu. There are also daily lunch specials. Hours: Monday - Friday, 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturday - Sunday, 6 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Imagine a store filled with chocolate - chocolate turtles, carmels, cupcakes and tiered cakes. Add in a dash of antiques and collectibles and you have Chocolate Air in Godfrey. This homey store makes all its chocolate creations from scratch so they are sure to delight. Don't leave without trying their three signature confections: Turtles, Chocolate Covered Bacon and Chocolate Covered Strawberries. Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

A breathtaking view of the Upper Mississippi and the Clark Bridge is the perfect complement to an Outfitters Grill menu that has prime cuts of USDA Choice beef, the freshest seafood, mouthwatering pasta and so much more.

Ideally placed in the historic Downtown Alton antique district, the Tiffany Inn is walking distance from shops, restaurants and the casino, with beautiful views of the Mississippi River and Clark Bridge. Located above the Alton Stained Glass Works shop, the inn has three elegant rooms decorated with lovely stained glass and antiques. Amenities include: private baths, air conditioning, mini refrigerators and coffeemakers.

Hungry after a day shopping and seeing the sights in Grafton? Then stop by the Crazy Beaver Lodge for a hand-tossed fresh pizza made with the toppings of your choice. On Fridays only, you can buy a 5 pound deep dish pizza which is sure to satisfy even the biggest pizza lover in your crew. Sandwiches, salads and appetizers are also available. Live music on Sundays. Hours: W - F 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. S - Su 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Riverbend Billiards provides 10,000 sq. ft. of entertainment. There is great food and beverages for everyone, plus a full bar for our over 21 crowd. You’ll find 15 7-ft. bar tables and two 9-ft. Gold Crowns. Dart machines and video games are available for the kids. Riverbend Billiards sells a wide variety of pool cues, cases and miscellaneous pool supplies as well as a large selection of soft tip darts and dart supplies.

Perfect for business or pleasure and conveniently located with easy access to key area attractions, restaurants and businesses.The friendly staff is ready to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. Numerous perks include a complimentary full breakfast, an exercise facility, laundromat, free high speed internet, cable or satellite TV, a meeting room and much more. Make a reservation today and save at this Alton hotel!

Cassen's Bait Shop has added two new guest rooms perfect for fishermen or hunters. Amenities offered are free Wi-fi, refrigerator & microwave. You'll enjoy a great view of the Illinois River with shopping and restaurants within walking distance.

Imagine a life boat made out of a mint chip fudge brownie, covered in strawberry ice cream and topped with chocolate sauce, whipped cream and a cherry. That's The Whole Scoop's newest version of their signature sundae called the "Life Boat". And it's not just sweet treats at The Whole Scoop. From secret recipe marinated chicken in the Chipotle Chicken Wrap to Mom's Recipe Chili, great homemade eats abound. Located in historic downtown Grafton, The Whole Scoop is a great place to stop during a day of shopping and river watching. Hours: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily.

Enjoy the comfort of this guest house. Amenities include a cozy sitting room, kitchen, and a deck with a view of the Mississippi River. Perfect for a couple looking for a relaxing getaway. The End of the Trail Inn is close to restaurants, shops and area attractions.

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting game in which the participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers (called "geocaches" or "caches"). Several are located at the Rivers Project and interested individuals can attend this free 1 hour program on Saturdays, June through August,to learn more and get involved in geocaching.

Enjoy a Girls' Day Out with lunch at Josephine's Tea Room in Godfrey. Fresh salads, soups, sandwiches and desserts made daily highlight the menu. While at the tea room, browse the many gift shops on the complex, including Josephine's Gifts, the Monticello House, Fred's Shed featuring discounted merchandise and the new Christmas House. Jospehine's is the perfect stop for a girls' day out shopping and having fun. Hours: M -F 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., S 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Open on Sundays in December 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.

This monument memorializes Elijah P. Lovejoy, whose work and death in Alton gave him a place in history for the abolition of slavery. During the slavery era, Elijah Lovejoy was a pastor who wrote anti-slavery editorials so controversial he became an object of hatred by slaveholders. Despite threats to his life, he continued his anti-slavery writings in the Alton Observer, even after three of his printing presses were thrown into the Mississippi River. It was this persistence that led an angry pro-slavery mob to attack and kill him in 1837.

A site interpreter at Pere Marquette State Park, will be presenting informative programs about bald eagles this winter. Visitors will learn to distinguish between immature and mature bald eagles, what eagles eat, why they spend winter months in the area and much more. All programs will begin at the park's visitor center at 8:30 a.m. Reservations are required. There will be a short video presentation followed by an observational drive to view the wintering bald eagles. Please dress warmly and have a full tank of gas. For more information on dates or reservations, call (618) 786-3323.

Sit back, sip your drink and enjoy the serenity of the Mississippi River as it flows past The Loading Dock Bar and Grill in Grafton, Illinois at the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Like being on vacation, it's the only place like it where you can sit by the water and watch the boat traffic on the river while enjoying stunning views of the palisades. Bring the kids along by day or at night, listen to live music while enjoying a full menu of hot fresh food served right off the grill. Make sure you begin your meal munching on a basket of chips dipped in the famous Dock Salsa!

From the moment you arrive at Comfort Inn, we want you to relax and feel at home. Our helpful staff is here to welcome you, and you'll find everything to suit your needs, including clean, comfortable, and well-appointed rooms with cozy beds. A free deluxe continental breakfast, indoor heated pool, and fitness center. We also offer free high-speed Internet access. Feel at ease knowing that your satisfaction is important to us!

Looking for a relaxing vacation destination? Look no further! This beautiful family and pet-friendly loft features hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, two bedrooms, open gathering area with full kitchen, dining area, large living area, washer and dryer, front and rear balconies with a BBQ grill and can accommodate up to 8 people! After all...who wouldn't want to stay on top of an ice cream shop?

Visit the James J. Eldred House, completed in 1861, and step back in time to view one of the most elegant residential structures in the region and an important surviving example of Greek Revival architecture. The home had fallen into disrepair over the years, but with the creation of The Illinois Valley Cultural Heritage Association, the Eldred House has come back to life and is being painstakingly restored. The home is open for tours during the annual Greene County Days celebration.

Bring a picnic lunch and Two Rivers Winery in historic Grafton will supply the wine or beer! Featured wineries include Hopewell Winery and Villa Maria Winery, although a variety of Illinois wines are available including Alto Vineyards, Von Jakob and St. James. Micro-brew beers, seasonal beers and four draft beers are on tap. In case you forgot your picnic basket, Two Rivers Winery offers cheeses, sausage and crackers in addition to 6 and 12-inch pizzas. Two Rivers Winery has indoor and outdoor seating that features a great river view. Hours: Wednesday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Friday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

The Stone Cottage, located about 2 miles from the Loading Dock, is a recently remodeled and beautifully appointed home was built in 1840 and is Grafton's oldest original structure. It features a full kitchen and three bedrooms with beds to sleep eight. The charming modern decor is warm and inviting; the property is perfect for a group getaway.

Bluffdale is an Illinois farm vacation dude ranch and bed & breakfast. Parent Magazine's "Top 10 Family Resorts in North America." Our family has been welcoming guests to our historic Illinois farm near Eldred, Illinois since 1963. Recreation activities include horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, hayrides, bonfires, sing-alongs and more. Bluffdale is famous for its generous home cooked meals with home baked bread, rolls and pies.
Our luxury cabins, featuring a fireplace and hot tub, are ideal for romantic getaway weekend or honeymoon bed & breakfast lodging.
Spring brings a wide variety of wildflowers and morel mushrooms. In fall the bluffs make a colorful drive and eagle watch from Alton to Bluffdale along the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway. Check our website for rates and availability.

Come home to Green Tree Inn where you can enjoy all the comforts of home and more. Let us pamper you while you enjoy the peacefulness of the quaint village often referred to as the “town that time forgot”. Green Tree Inn is located right off the Great River Road between Alton and Grafton. Take advantage of all the local activities and then come back to the Inn to relax, refresh and rejuvenate. All rooms have private bathrooms with shower/tub combo. Take advantage of our screened in porch, fire pit in the garden or fireplace in our great room to relax and unwind. The Inn is great in all seasons. Free Wi-Fi is available. Bicycles are available for our guests to take a leisurely ride around the village or on one of the local bike trails. This is a non-smoking facility

Looking for a souvenir of your trip on the Great River Road? Don't miss this fun little store full of authentic Native American jewelry, pottery, crafts and books. Many items featuring the legendary Piasa Bird, a local Native American legend, can be found at Pajarito. Store staff is knowledgeable and willing to spend time with customers explaining the legends behind the keepsakes. Hours: Monday - Thursday, 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Friday - Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Located just a few blocks from the riverfront Argosy Casino Alton, this bar hosts drag shows every weekend, karaoke on Thursdays, amateur drag queen and king shows the last Wednesday of the month, and dancing to DJ-driven music.

Jacoby Arts Center is dedicated to creating opportunities for individual artists in their pursuit of artistic excellence and economic success. The stunning gallery presents works of regional and national artists and the retail shop, known as The Artist Shop, showcases items in a variety of media while providing artists a retail outlet to their audiences.

When just about any native of the Alton area thinks of a haunted house, normally one name comes to mind - the infamous McPike Mansion. Thousands of visitors and paranormal investigators have visited the grounds of the notorious McPike Mansion claiming spirits still roam this property. Some claim the haunts date back to the property before the mansion was even built, with native American ghosts and a residue from a possible Underground Railroad stop. Other mysterious stories include servants of the building, a cook in the kitchen and a strange death of a woman in the bathtub. Some even believe that Eleanor and Henry McPike still roam the corridors of their former home. All total, more than 11 different spirits have been experienced in recent years.

Family owned for more than 50 years, Tony's is located in Alton on Third Street. Known for their mouth-watering pepperloin steaks, the family recipe has been a crowd pleaser for years. Homemade pastas and family recipes make for a memorable meal. Tony's offers the best of both worlds with a formal dining room, perfect for a romantic meal or to celebrate a special occasion. The Third Street Cafe entrance features a sports bar atmosphere perfect for kicking back to enjoy a slice of fresh secret recipe pizza, a juicy half-pound steakburger or a basket of wings. From casual family dining to a cozy meal together, Tony's is your place!

Wine, beer, food and an amazing view of the Mississippi River are all part of the charm of the Piasa Winery & Pub. Enjoy award-winning wines made at the Piasa vineyards or try one of the more than 400 Illinois and international wines available. Sit on the deck of the riverfront pub and relax with a beer from the more than 100 imported and domestic brews on hand. Appetizers, sandwiches (including the Piasa Pounder -- take the challenge if you dare!) soups, salads, pastas and desserts are available on this full service menu.

Based on the book Haunted Alton by Troy Taylor, Alton Hauntings Tours offers an entertaining and spine-tingling trip into the unknown, taking visitors to the most authentic haunted places in Alton. Uncover the eerie folklore, ghostly tales and documented haunted spots on a three-hour walking tour of the city’s most haunted sites. Visitors will see sites that have become nationally known, like the old Alton penitentiary, First Unitarian Church, Enos Sanitarium and many others. The tours have been proven to be popular with ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike, and nowhere else can you learn as much about the real, haunted history of Alton. Walking tours and bus tours are offered during two touring seasons – Spring & Summer and the Haunted Fall Season. Private tours are also available for groups of 20 or more. Reservations must be made in advance for all tours.

Originally called Monticello, the village of Godfrey was named for a Massachusetts sea captain, Benjamin Godfrey who founded the Monticello Seminary in 1838. One of the more rapidly growing Illinois community colleges, Lewis & Clark Community College, now calls the Monticello campus home. Located on the campus, the Benjamin Godfrey Chapel, built in 1854, has become a landmark in the community. This church has been designated as one of only six churches outside of the northeastern United States that are authentic copies of New England church architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Enjoy award-winning wines at Mary Michelle Winery located at Pere Marquette Lodge, in scenic Pere Marquette State Park. The Tasting Room, Fountain Patio and Riverview Terrace are the perfects spots to relax with a glass of wine and unwind. Mary Michelle wines include Norton, Chardonel and Moscato. The winery is open 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. daily.

Entertaining audiences since 1934, the Alton Little Theater offers a season of great live theatrical performances from dramas to comedies to everyone's favorite musicals. The Alton Little Theater is one of the oldest community theaters in the state of Illinois.

Stay at one of the oldest guest houses in Grafton! This guest house boasts historic charm and modern amenities. Located in the center of downtown Grafton, it's within easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, wineries, and the riverfront.

In 1918, Alton became the famous birthplace of Robert Wadlow, "The Gentle Giant." Born a normal eight pounds in 1918, Wadlow suffered from a pituitary gland problem. He was almost nine feet tall and 500 pounds when he died of complications from a foot infection at age 22. He is noted in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest man alive. A life-sized statue on College Avenue lifts visitors' heads in amazement. The Alton Museum of History and Art have devoted an entire room to Wadlow, including his third-grade desk and oversized grade school ring.

Perfect for pleasure and business. Stay by the night, week or month. One, two and three bedroom furnished apartments with full kitchen, coffee maker, stove, microwave and dishes. Enjoy all the modern conveniences including digital cable TV, DVD, and complementary Wi-Fi. Located in the Middletown Historic District next to the award winning Beall Mansion Bed and Breakfast. Close to shopping and businesses, marina, wineries, restaurants, hiking and biking trails, historic sites and the Argosy Casino Alton.

Visit this working studio to shop for hand-crafted works of art - lamps, window panes, ornaments, sun catchers, glass beads and more. From decorative items to window panes, make a purchase from the floor or have Lynne custom design a piece for you and your home. Classes are also available. Hours: Tuesday 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or by appointment.

This monument remembers those who died in the infamous Alton prison. A smallpox virus spread rapidly through the Alton Prison in 1863, killing more than 1,435 incarcerated soldiers. The soldiers are laid to rest here and each of their names is commemorated at the Memorial. The Alton Prison and Confederate Cemetery are some of the rare northernmost monuments to the Confederate Soldier.

Colonel William H. Fulkerson's mansion and farm museum contains many rare agricultural items and equipment with emphasis on large, rare farm steam traction engines, utilized for plowing the prairie, threshing the grain, and for powering early sawmills. The estate is 14-room Southern-style Victorian mansion that has remained virtually unchanged to this day. It was placed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places in 1998.

Follow the lead of the locals in Alton and order dessert first, at My Just Desserts, as fresh-baked favorites like the Tollhouse brownies and Mrs. Ledbetter’s chocolate pie sell out early. Every morning 9 to 13 pie varieties are baked fresh. You’ll swear you stepped back in time when you enter this unique establishment, from the squeak in the hardwood floors to the Mason jar glasses.

Even the heartiest of appetites is no match for the Captain’s Table Buffet. Enjoy seasonal favorites, hand-selected by our chefs. From comfort foods like special-recipe fried chicken and mashed potatoes to fresh fish and steamed vegetables we are sure to have exactly what you are looking for.

Eckert's rustic barn and farm looks just like it did years ago, specializing in peaches, apples and pumpkins. Take a free wagon ride out to the farm to pick your own produce, and enjoy the charming country store and bakery.

If you're searching for full-service hotels in Alton, IL, look no further. In addition to state-of-the-art event facilities, we have a large atrium with comfortable seating to encourage conversation. We also have added all new 32" flat screen tv's in all guest rooms. Located at the intersection of Route 140 and Route 3, and within minutes of I-255 , I-270, and the Amtrak Station, this hotel boasts unparalleled amenities and the friendliest staff, as well as ideal proximity to downtown Alton. Amenities include free Wi-fi, sauna, whirlpool, on-site guest self-laundry, fitness center and a business center. There is also a full service restaurant and two lounges on-site.

There is something for everyone at the Alton Antique Center. Merchandise from around the world, from inexpensive to investment quality pieces, abound in this shop located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Rare one-of-a-kind items, exotic pieces, oddities, and items from Asia, Great Britain, Europe and America are available. From beautiful to whimsical, there is always something to capture the eye and the imagination at the center.

Located in the only Victorian home in Grafton Harrison's Antiques and Gifts features seven rooms crammed full of antiques and collectibles. Plan to spend several hours browsing through the home and flea market located in the garage.

The view is incredible and the wine selection is unbeatable every season of the year on top of the bluffs at Aerie's Winery. During the spring and summer, the outdoor deck offers a breathtaking view of recreation on the river. As the temperatures cool, you can lounge inside next to the fireplace. Aerie's also offers cottages and a lodge to accommodate the needs of overnight guests, all within walking distance of the winery. Seasonally, check our calendar for live music on the decks Wine, cheese, sausages and pizza are available.

The final debate of Stephan A. Douglas and Abraham Lincoln took place in front of Alton's city hall at the corner of Broadway and Market Streets. The senatorial debate drew national attention along with more that 6,000 visitors. Life-like statues of the two statesmen keep the famous series of debates in 1858 frozen forever in time.

Located in Kampsville, the Center for American Archeology Museum is housed in the historic Kamp Store, offering a variety of exhibits focusing on the 10,000 year pre-history of the lower Illinois River Valley, the archeological history of Illinois and the history of the Kamp Store. Guided tours of the facility and excavation sites are available for groups of ten or more.

Consisting of 15 wildlife management areas and 13 public access areas, the Mississippi River State and Wildlife Area manages a majority of its 24,400 acres to accommodate waterfowl hunting and habitat enhancement.

Winged monsters, explorers, riverboats and a gentle giant. The Alton Museum of History & Art shows the crossroads of American history in Alton. The museum is located in the historic Loomis Hall across from the Wadlow statue. Loomis Hall is the oldest building in the state of Illinois continuously utilized for education. One of the most popular rooms, the Wadlow Room, pays tribute to Alton's "Gentle Giant" and the World's Tallest Man. The Pioneer Room explores the history of Alton from the Lewis & Clark Expedition to the Civil War with exhibits on Elijah Lovejoy, the Lincoln-Douglas Debates and the "Alton Route" on the Underground Railroad. Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday 1 - 4 p.m.

Built at the dawn of the 20th century this two-story home retains its turn of the century charm while offering the convenience of modern pleasures and comfort. The home offers 2 units, upstairs & downstairs with an adjoining stairway that can be opened for large groups.

Located in a historic downtown Alton building, these suites are private, secure and first class in a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Fully furnished one and two bedroom units. Kitchen, VCR, digital cable, washer and dryer, free local calls. Located within walking distance to local restaurants, clubs and shopping.

Tour the mansion built as a wedding present by railroad baron and riverboat magnate Z.B. Job for his son and bride Mary Drummond, heiress to the Drummond tobacco fortune. Today this three-story mansion serves as a bed and breakfast.

Relax in this riverfront cottage located a block from Main Street in downtown Grafton. This unique, art-filled guest house is just a stone's throw from the Mississippi River. The flower-filled back deck faces the river and the historic Boatworks building, which houses the monthly Riverside Flea Market. A restful atmosphere and overstuffed comfy furniture will entice you to read by the fireplace or paint a picture at the artist's easel. A full kitchen allows for snacks of cooking in style. This cottage is designed for two. Free Wi-fi.

Located on the edge of Alton, Piasa Park is an attractive stop for motorists, picnickers and bicyclists. The park is set at the base of the giant Piasa Bird mural that is painted on the side of a huge bluff. A large granite arrowhead tells the story of the Piasa Bird, which, according to legend, Chief Ouatoga and his 20 warriors killed with poison darts.

Visit this "Key West" of the Midwest located where the Illinois River and Mississippi River meet. In addition to harbor faciltiies, a floating swimming pool and the Big Kahuna Bar and Grill, Grafton Harbor features a gift shop where boaters and landlubbers alike can find unique trinkets and treasures. Snacks, beer and wine, boating accessories and parts, clothing for all ages, navigational maps and gifts for that special child are all available.

Centrally located in Grafton with two suites available. Each suite has a wet bar with a refrigerator, microwave and coffee pot. A large sitting area with a TV, DVD player and a full size sofa. The bedroom has a queen size bed and fireplace. The bathroom has a shower, a large make-up vanity and features the Bain Ultra air jetted tub for two. Making it perfect for the special couples getaway!

Enjoy the relaxing view while sailing above the bluff line over the Mississippi River! The views are spectacular and sure to be remembered for years to come. It’s a very peaceful ride that gives you a completely different perspective on your world. After trying it once, most people are repeat fliers.

Fast Eddie’s Bon Air in Alton is like no other. Over 4,000 half barrels of beer and thousands of cases of cans, bottles and liquor quench the thirst of our patrons every year. Some even say that Bon Air is the #1 volume bar in the world. A food bar serves an assortment of grilled burgers, shish-kabobs, bratwurst and boiled shrimp all sold at the same low prices as when they were added nineteen years ago.